Blog posts from the staff of The Daily News & The Memphis News

Cortona Contemporary Italian has revamped its service offerings with an updated wine menu, new daily specials and the addition of a private dining area.

“We’d rather have what people can relate to more readily available,” said chef/owner David Cleveland. “But still have fun, adventurous food.”

Cortona has tweaked its wine list with more familiar names and added more Fall-appropriate drink items like the autumn Manhatten, caramel apple pie and strawberry fields.

To cut down on preparation time, Cortona has narrowed its menu offerings to highlight best sellers as well as focusing on daily fish and seasonal specials.

The Italian restaurant at 948 S. Cooper St. has also added new features like a bacon wrapped filet, messicano and gamberetto pizzas, pumpkin ravioli, and a cranberry-sauced duck with mushroom wild rice risotto and braised Brussells sprouts.

Changes to the casual eateries’ interior include the creation of a “curtain room” that can seat about 35 people. Cleveland said it allows for a private dining option while shrinking up the main area and promoting a more intimate atmosphere.

Cleveland opened Cortona in a 5,000-square-foot space at the intersection of Cooper Street and Young Avenue about two years ago. He has more than 20 years of restaurant industry experience, including stints with Chez Philippe, Ronnie Grisanti & Sons, Café Society and Elfo’s.

Cleveland is encouraged by the activity the Cooper-Young area has seen as of late, including the addition of new bike lanes, “which could make a big difference.”

Cortona will continue its Happy Hour Tuesdays through Fridays as well as its live jazz music on Wednesday and Thursday evenings. Follow Cortona on Facebook and Twitter for daily specials.